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Presentation by representatives of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) concerning the NVCA Watershed 2013 Health Checks.
Wayne Wilson, Chief Administrative Officer of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) provided a presentation on the history of watershed reporting and the 2013 Watershed Health Check.
Mr. Wilson detailed the purpose of the health checks in describing the watershed physiography, drainage points and land use as well as the conditions and trends related to the Middle Nottawasaga River. He specifically reviewed the forest and wetland conditions, stream health and groundwater. Mr. Wilson highlighted that a reasonable mix is 30% forest cover to 70% urban in order for waters/streams to stay healthy and ensure that there is low impact to infrastructure from storms. He noted that once the forest coverage decrease to 10%, this impact increases significantly. He detailed the Forestry and Healthy Waters Stewardship Programs offered by the Authority.
In conclusion, Mr. Wilson spoke to the challenges and opportunities for Barrie as a Watershed Community.
Members of City Council asked several questions and received responses from the presenter.